Downtown Nashville's growth has followed a very similar trajectory to the Preds hockey team, both rising in prominence over the last 15 years; the Preds have a reputation as one of the best run franchises in pro sports, while downtown Nashville is one of the hottest tourist destinations in the country.

Gary Bettman, NHL CommissionerGary Bettman was the NHL Commissioner when Nashville was awarded a NHL franchise and overseen the orgnaization's rise from its expansion roots to its current place among the league's top franchises.

Fact Of The Week:

The 2003 NHL Entry Draft, hosted at Bridgestone Arena, has already produced 22 NHL All-Stars, including Preds defensemen Ryan Suter and Shea Weber, making it one of the most successful drafts in recent history.